Rivers United Ready for 'Cup Final' Clash with San Pedro, Insists Captain Manyo

Rivers United captain Stephen Manyo has pledged that the Nigerian outfit are travelling to Côte d'Ivoire with the determination to secure a positive result in their CAF Champions League preliminary round first-leg tie against San Pedro.

The Pride of Rivers departed Nigeria on Wednesday evening, embarking on their continental journey ahead of the weekend clash. Speaking ahead of the preliminary encounter, the skipper stressed that the team is fully focused on delivering a competitive performance away from home.

Facing Ivorian opposition on foreign soil represents a stern continental test, but Manyo made it clear that Rivers United are not taking the fixture lightly. The defender reiterated his commitment to the fans, noting that the squad intends to treat Saturday’s showdown with the intensity and discipline of a major final.

Securing an advantageous outcome in the away leg is crucial for the Nigerian representatives, who will look to manage the contest effectively before returning home for the decisive reverse fixture. With continental qualification at stake, tactical organization and composure will be essential in navigating the hostile environment in Côte d'Ivoire.

Rivers United have built a reputation in recent seasons as one of Nigeria's foremost competitors in CAF inter-club competitions. However, navigating the preliminary stages of the Champions League demands early-season sharpness and collective focus.

Having departed midweek, the squad will have sufficient time to acclimate to local conditions and complete their final tactical preparations before taking the field this weekend